Docks to shut down for ‘critical repairs’

Bermuda’s lifeline docks will shut down for a week this month for “critical” repairs.

The impact the closure of the Hamilton docks will have on shipments to Bermuda was unclear last night.

A letter to transport firms, HM Customs and the Corporation of Hamilton from Polaris Holding, the operator of the Front Street cargo terminal, said the closure was caused by “safety and health issues” on the roadway area of the dock used by machines that service ships and tractor trailer trucks.

Warren Jones, the Polaris chief executive, said the “critical nature of the work” meant that repairs would start on March 11.

The Chamber of Commerce responded today by expressing disappointment at the short notice of the closure.

Mr Jones’s letter added: “The work is anticipated to take seven days to complete, weather permitting.

“It should also be noted that there is no way to undertake ship or truck operations while the main portion of the work is being done.

“Therefore, the dock will have to close between Sunday, March 11 and Sunday, March 18 for this to occur.”

The letter added: “We apologise for any inconvenience this causes to the industry but believe we have no alternative than to take these steps in the interest of the safety of our staff.”